Final answer:
The sugar in dairy products that some people struggle to digest is lactose, which is broken down by the enzyme lactase. Lactose intolerance occurs when there's not enough lactase, causing digestive discomfort. Lactose-free products and lactase supplements can help manage the condition.
Step-by-step explanation:
The sugars found in dairy products that some people can't properly digest are known as lactose. Lactose is a disaccharide that requires the enzyme lactase for digestion, which breaks it down into glucose and galactose. However, many adults and some children produce insufficient amounts of lactase, leading to a condition known as lactose intolerance. People with this condition experience symptoms such as bloating, cramps, nausea, and vomiting when they consume dairy products. To manage lactose intolerance, sufferers can avoid lactose-containing foods, use lactase supplements, or consume lactose-free milk and dairy products. In severe cases like galactosemia, a genetic disease, individuals lack the enzyme needed to convert galactose to glucose, leading to more serious health issues.